Region centers: Kyzyl

Kyzyl city is the capital of the Tuva Republic located at the junction of two major tributaries of the Yenisei — Kaa-Khem and Bii-Khem Rivers. Kyzyl is situated in the geographical center of Asia. The monument called “The Center of Asia” — an obelisk with the inscriptions in three languages — proves the fact. Population of the city is under 100,000 people. City telephone code: +7 39422.

HistoryKyzyl was founded in 1914 at the confluence of the two major tributaries of the Yenisey –Kaa-Khem and Bii-Khem Rivers. Founded in 1914, it was called Belotsarsk until 1917 and Khem-Beldyr from 1914 till 1926.

Things to See

If one visits Kyzyl between 13-16 August 2004, it is possible to witness an annual national celebration called ‘Nadym’. This festival is very similar to the Mongolian one called ‘Naaadam’. People from all the regions of the Republic come to enjoy this festival. Various spectacular events like national wrestling, horse races, competitions of archery, camel races and exhibitions take place there.